A decade of transporting equipment in a pickup truck with a fiberglass shell revealed one persistent issue: the topper exceeded 150 pounds and proved impossible to remove.
The Flated Cap56 represents an inflatable truck shell weighing under 60 pounds. A portable pump inflates the shell in minutes, and it secures to the truck bed using tie-down straps. This lightweight construction suits daily use—a capability the original fiberglass model lacked.
Beyond its reduced weight, the Cap56 incorporates functional enhancements. It provides complete waterproofing, featuring an integrated rain skirt to block leaks. Two tinted side windows and a rear window maintain visibility, while a cab-to-bed pass-through allows passengers to retrieve items without opening the main compartment. Interior mesh pockets organize small tools like smartphones and flashlights, and reinforced zippers hold window shades in place during travel.
Priced at $1,600, the Cap56 costs significantly less than traditional hardshells, which often exceed $3,000. Testing in northern New Mexico’s high-altitude conditions and intense sunlight over a month showed no visible deterioration. It protected bicycle equipment from rain during one weekend, then was removed the following day to transport nursery saplings, a versatility rigid shells cannot match.
Read Also: Cozy Cardio Trend Boosts Outdoor Athletes’ Consistency, Recovery
While inflatable truck shells exist, most fail to deliver the durability or ease required for frequent use. The Cap56 fills that void. Its blend of lightweight portability, weather resistance, and rapid setup distinguishes it from competitors.
The primary benefit comes from its adaptability. A permanent shell restricts a truck to a single purpose, whether gear storage or occasional camping. The Cap56 adjusts to daily demands: securing delicate cargo one moment, then removing it for heavy loads or vehicle maintenance. For someone managing a farm, children, and weekend trips, this flexibility is essential. It functions not just as an accessory, but as a time-saving solution.
After a month of regular use, the Cap56 has maintained its structure, though its performance in severe climates over extended periods remains untested. The user intends to evaluate it further in camping situations, where its organizational features and weatherproofing could offer even greater advantages. For now, the key insight is clear: an inflatable shell that does not feel like an incomplete solution.
